9 Superfoods to Boost your Brain January 23, 2015

Have you ever walked into a room, looked around and then forgot why you went in there? How about, putting down your keys, wallet or purse only to forget where you laid them, your glasses…cell phone or…I could go on and on, but you get the picture. Besides it being frustrating it can also be a bit embarrassing, but as we age even as early as the age of 30, we begin to lose brain power.Taking vitamins and supplements or playing games and puzzles can help boost brain power. However, most of us are multi-tasking daily, which by the way does not increase brain power, so eating the right foods can feed brain cells and according to nutritional therapists, these are the top 9.

Whole Grains

Like everything else in your body, the brain cannot work without energy. The ability to concentrate and focus comes from the adequate, steady supply of energy – in the form of glucose in our blood to the brain. To keep you mentally alert throughout the day eat ‘brown’ cereals, wheat bran, granary bread and brown pasta.

Oily fish

Oily fish contains EPA and DHA in a ready-made form, which enables the body to use it easily. The main sources of oily fish include salmon, trout, mackerel, herring, sardines, pilchards and kippers. Low DHA levels have been linked to a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and memory loss.

Blueberries

Evidence suggests that eating blueberries may be effective in improving or delaying short term memory loss. Blueberries are available year round so there is no excuse not to add them to your grocery list.

Tomatoes

There is good evidence to suggest that lycopene, a powerful antioxidant found in tomatoes, could help protect against the kind of free radical damage to cells which occurs in the development of dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s.

Blackcurrant

Vitamin C has long been thought to have the power to increase mental agility. One of the best sources of this vital vitamin are blackcurrants, spead a little on your morning toast.

Pumpkin Seeds

Just a handful of pumpkin seeds each day is all you need to get your recommended daily amount of zinc, which is vital for enhancing memory and thinking skills.

Broccoli

A great source of vitamin K, which is known to enhance cognitive function and improve brainpower.

Sage

Sage has long had a reputation for improving memory and although most studies focus on sage as an essential oil, it could be worth adding fresh sage to your diet too.

Nuts

A study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology suggests that a good intake of vitamin E might help to prevent cognitive decline, particularly in the elderly. Nuts are a great source of vitamin E along with leafy green vegetables, asparagus, olives, seeds, eggs, brown rice and whole grains.